Preparations for Leaving the EU Debate

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Department: Cabinet Office

Preparations for Leaving the EU

Martin Whitfield Excerpts
Tuesday 8th October 2019

(4 years, 6 months ago)

Commons Chamber
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Michael Gove Portrait Michael Gove
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As one former Member of this House said to a foreign potentate, I admire my hon. Friend’s courage, his strength and his indefatigability in being able to insert HS2 into every question, and he knows my views on that matter.

Martin Whitfield Portrait Martin Whitfield (East Lothian) (Lab)
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We spoke in questions recently about pallets. I raise the issue again today because on page 113 of the recently published report the Government say that there must be compliance with ISPM 15—international standards for phytosanitary measure No. 15—to export into Europe, but on page 115 they suggest that compliance only “may” be needed. To help those trying to export on pallets that will be accepted, which is it?

Michael Gove Portrait Michael Gove
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It would be prudent to ensure that pallets are compliant, but we also point out that individual firms should contact the supplier or the Timber Packaging and Pallet Confederation—TIMCON—if they need more advice.